Downtown Bath, Maine and The City of Ships Walking Tour

Maine , USA

Downtown Bath, Maine and The City of Ships Walking Tour

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(40 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

History Awaits! This fun and fascinating tour focuses on the past 400+ years of the historic and quaint downtown of Bath, Maine, the fifth largest port in America during its 19th century heyday. Learn Bath's story by walking among the charming period buildings, hearing unique stories, and uncovering hidden gems. Led by an educator, this perfectly paced, small group tour is designed for those who love history and offers something for everyone, including lots of laughs. You will leave with a new appreciation for Bath, local and American history, plus tips and recommendations for other local attractions in Midcoast Maine!

Available options

Walking Tour: Downtown Bath, The City of Ships

What's included

Attention to the safety and comfort of each participant

Guided, small group tour

Recommendations on how to enjoy the rest of your visit to the area

Detailed itinerary

19th century Revival Romaneque library containing historic artifacts.

A replica of the Virginia, a pinnace built by the 1607 Popham colonists - the first recorded British shipbuilding.

A historic, charming, vibrant city with an intact 19th century downtown. A center of shipping and wooden shipbuilding in its 1850s hey dey.

A masterpiece of gothic New England church architecture, built in 1843.

This experience is the perfect complement to a visit to Maine Maritime Museum, which is about 1 mile from downtown Bath.

Grand and imposing 19th century Custom House, built in the 1850s to serve the 5th largest port in the United States: Bath, Maine.

Classical architecture with a soaring bell tower (and Paul Revere bell), overseeing the city of Bath from the corner of Front and Center.

This experience starts on the shores of the Kennebec River, the second largest river in Maine, and a global center of wooden shipbuilding in the 19th century.

A beautiful, tree filled park with expansive views of the Kennebec River, plenty of shade and places to sit.

What's not included

Sunscreen, water

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

7 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

33 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Come at least 5 minutes early; look for your guide in the middle of the park, adjacent to the river; she will be wearing a green backpack and carrying a clipboard.

About Maine

Maine, the northeasternmost U.S. state, is renowned for its rugged coastline, picturesque lighthouses, and dense forests. It offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, quaint coastal towns, and rich maritime history, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and those seeking a classic New England experience.

Top Attractions

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a stunning natural area known for its rocky coastline, dense forests, and granite peaks. It offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.

Nature 1-3 days Free (park entry is free, but some activities may have fees)

Portland Head Light

One of the most iconic lighthouses in the U.S., Portland Head Light offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and a glimpse into Maine's maritime history.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Bar Harbor

A charming coastal town known for its Victorian architecture, quaint shops, and delicious seafood. Bar Harbor is the gateway to Acadia National Park and offers a variety of waterfront activities.

Cultural Half day to full day Varies by activity

Must-Try Local Dishes

Lobster Roll

A sandwich made with fresh lobster meat, mayonnaise, and lemon juice, served on a buttered, toasted bun.

Lunch Contains shellfish

Clam Chowder

A creamy soup made with clams, potatoes, onions, and sometimes bacon.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or gluten-free

Blueberry Pie

A sweet pie made with wild Maine blueberries and a flaky crust.

Dessert Contains gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking in Acadia National Park Kayaking in Casco Bay Skiing at Sunday River Beachcombing in Bar Harbor Spas in Portland Scenic drives along the coast Visiting museums in Portland Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in Maine, offering warm weather, long daylight hours, and a variety of outdoor activities. This is the best time to enjoy the beaches, hiking, and festivals.

15°C to 28°C 59°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: French (in some areas)
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-5:00 (Eastern Standard Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Maine is generally a safe destination with low crime rates. However, visitors should take standard precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious when using ATMs
• Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas

Getting there

By air

Portland International Jetport • 10 km from Portland
Bangor International Airport • 12 km from Bangor

By train

Portland Transportation Center, Brunswick Station

By bus

Concord Coach Lines, Greyhound

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and reliable bus service within the Portland metropolitan area.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Portland Bar Harbor Belfast

Day trips

Camden

160 km from Portland • Half day to full day

A picturesque coastal town known for its harbor, lighthouse, and scenic views.

Kennebunkport

90 km from Portland • Half day to full day

A charming coastal town with historic architecture, art galleries, and beautiful beaches.

Bethel

160 km from Portland • Full day

A scenic mountain town known for its outdoor activities and historic sites.

Festivals

Lobster Festival • Early July Maine Boat Builders Show • March Maine International Film Festival • July

Pro tips

Visit Acadia National Park early in the morning to avoid crowds and secure parking.
Try the famous lobster rolls and clam chowder, but be prepared for long lines at popular spots.
Explore the charming coastal towns of Bar Harbor, Camden, and Belfast for a taste of Maine's maritime heritage.
Pack layers and waterproof gear, as Maine's weather can be unpredictable.
Consider visiting in the fall for stunning foliage and fewer crowds.